M16 vs. M16A2

Attribute	M16	M16A2
Caliber	5.56mm	5.56mm
Weight	7.18 lbs	8.79 lbs
Length	39.5 in	39.63 in
Barrel Length	20 in	20 in
Rate of Fire	700-950 rounds/min	700-900 rounds/min
Effective Range	550 m	800 m

History and Background

The M16 rifle was first introduced in the 1960s as the standard issue rifle for the United States military during the Vietnam War. It was designed by Eugene Stoner and manufactured by Colt's Manufacturing Company. The M16A2, on the other hand, was introduced in the 1980s as an upgraded version of the original M16. It was developed in response to feedback from soldiers in the field and incorporated several improvements over its predecessor.

Design and Features

One of the main differences between the M16 and M16A2 is the barrel length. The M16 has a 20-inch barrel, while the M16A2 has a 20-inch barrel with a 1:7 twist rate. This twist rate allows the M16A2 to stabilize heavier bullets more effectively, improving accuracy at longer ranges. Additionally, the M16A2 features a fixed carrying handle with adjustable rear sights, while the M16 has a detachable carrying handle.

Caliber and Ammunition

Both the M16 and M16A2 rifles are chambered in 5.56x45mm NATO caliber. However, the M16A2 is optimized for use with the M855 cartridge, which is a heavier bullet with a steel penetrator tip. This ammunition is designed to improve penetration and terminal ballistics, making it more effective against armored targets. The M16, on the other hand, can also use the M855 cartridge but is not optimized for it.

Fire Control Group

Another key difference between the M16 and M16A2 is the fire control group. The M16 features a fully automatic firing mode in addition to semi-automatic, while the M16A2 has a three-round burst mode instead of full auto. This change was made to improve control and conserve ammunition, as burst fire is often more accurate than full auto fire.

Stock and Handguard

The M16A2 also features a redesigned stock and handguard compared to the original M16. The stock of the M16A2 is longer and has a more pronounced pistol grip, which improves ergonomics and control. The handguard of the M16A2 is also more durable and heat-resistant, allowing for sustained fire without overheating. These changes make the M16A2 more comfortable and reliable to use in combat situations.

Overall Performance

When it comes to overall performance, the M16A2 is considered to be an improvement over the original M16 in many aspects. The improved barrel twist rate and optimized ammunition make the M16A2 more accurate and effective at longer ranges. The three-round burst fire control group provides better control and ammunition conservation in combat situations. The redesigned stock and handguard also contribute to better ergonomics and durability. Overall, the M16A2 is a more refined and capable rifle compared to the M16.